Working women and society

Why is our society so narrow-minded? Rather than appreciating someone’s efforts, why do we consider it necessary to demoralize them? Has our religion not given fundamental rights to women? Then why does our society not realize that some women are compelled to take drastic steps to improve their lives? Why are we determined to bring obstacles in their path to success?

We are referring to courageous working women who are earning their own livelihoods. The economic crisis has made life tough for people. In such circumstances, many women are forced to step outside their homes to earn a living for their families and meet household expenses. The foremost reason is to provide a decent standard of living to their children.

The main reason is the rising cost of living. Another aspect is that the circumstances in their lives come to such an extent that there is no breadwinner in their home and they have no other option but to find a job. If the standards of equality and justice are to be maintained, hasn’t Islam given women basic rights and allow them to stand on their feet and be productive members of society?

Yet, still, some people have such conservative mindsets that they believe that a woman should be confined to the boundaries of their home. Women who step outside their homes to find work face all sorts of problems. Some raise questions on their character and even taunt them. This is not the main reason why women work. Why do we have to raise doubts on the character of a working woman? Her life should not be as difficult as it is made out to be. Why are such archaic thoughts still prevalent in our society?

If we are unable to change our mindset, then our education has no use. Where are the feminists and the flag bearers of women’s rights? The truth is that proponents of women’s rights and liberal-minded people also agree that women are inferior in certain aspects. What is the status of women in our society? Is it symbolic or will women get their due rights? When will the liberal minds also put their words into action? Why is our society so intolerant? When will we ever learn?